A row has flared up over the future of the Towngate Theatre - with the company pipped at the post to run it accusing councillors of being out of touch with the community.

The National Theatre of Fun (NTF) pledged to turn the Basildon theatre into a centre for comedy, with cabaret, jazz, popular music and alternative cinema all playing a part in its rejuvenation.

But the copmpany lost out to Hetherington Seelig Theatres Ltd (HST) which already runs the Swan Theatre in High Wycombe. Basildon councillors made the decision behind closed doors.

The NTF spokesman added: "We are disappointed about the council turning its back on our application but we are equally anxious that community concerns are taken into account in negotiations with the HST."

A Basildon Council spokesman confirmed it had received presentations from two companies and subsequently chose HST as the preferred option.

He added: "HST is an established company with a proven track record of running a similar type of facility with a successful programme of popular activities in tune with the community it serves."

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